South African police have launched a large-scale manhunt after a mass shooting in Johannesburg left 12 people dead and several others injured. The attack, which occurred late on Saturday in the Soweto township, is the deadliest single incident in the city in recent years. Authorities have not yet named any suspects, but they believe the shooting was gang-related, with reports suggesting that the victims were targeted at a local tavern.
The British Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, warning UK nationals to avoid high-risk areas in Johannesburg and to remain vigilant. The Foreign Office statement said: ‘Incidents of violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, occur frequently in South Africa. We advise British tourists to exercise caution, particularly in townships and isolated areas.
’ South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the attack, calling it a ‘senseless and brutal act of violence’ and vowed to deploy additional police resources to restore order. The shooting comes amid rising tensions over crime rates in South Africa, which have become a major political issue ahead of next year’s general election. Johannesburg’s police commissioner said that a specialised task force had been assembled to track down the perpetrators.
He added that forensic teams were examining the scene and that investigators were following up on leads. British tourists currently in South Africa are advised to register with the British embassy, avoid non-essential travel to townships, and follow local police instructions. This is a developing story.
Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
